Travel Guide: Rainbow Mountain – Information

Indeed, you have heard of a mountain with the colors of the rainbow or seen stock photos on social networks of hikers on this incredible mountain. But haven’t you had the chance to visit it yet? Well, here I am, leaving you all the information you need to know so that your visit to Vinicunca will be one of the best experiences of your life.

The Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca, is one of the most beautiful natural attractions you can appreciate on the way to Apu Ausangate. It does say that the energy of the Mountain of Seven Colors is so great that it represents a new opportunity for all who visit it.

The majesty of this mountain is so incredible that it is listed by National Geographic magazine as one of the 100 tourist places you must visit before you die.

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Vinicunca: History of Rainbow Mountain

The geographical feature (also known as Rainbow Mountain) representing this magical mountain is the snowy Ausangate, present in the Cordillera of the Vilcanota River.

Previously, this mountain was covered by a glacier, which resulted from global warming and melting until the entire mountainous structure was discovered.

When you arrive at the place, you will be able to appreciate a great mountain formed of sediments or layers of different colors that have been superimposed one on the other to make a magnificent geological formation.

The slopes are stained in various hues, including red, purple, green, yellow, and pink. Since 2016, when this incredible mountain became famous through social networks, it has received hundreds of tourists daily.

How high is Rainbow Mountain?

The Mountain of 7 Colors, or Vinicunca, is one of the enormous mountains in Peru, located at more than 5,200 masl (17060 feet).

The uphill walk can be a bit challenging, but once at the top, I assure you that your steps will have been worth it, and you will feel proud to reach one of the main tourist attractions of Cusco and Peru.

How do I get to Rainbow Mountain?

Rainbow Mountain is located 140 km southeast of Cusco. To reach the destination, you must travel for three hours to a small town called Pitumarca, in the province of Quispicanchi. Once in Pitumarca, you must take a trail route to the peasant community of Pampa Chiri, where you will start the exciting hike.

After a one-hour walk, you will arrive at the town of Machuraccay, where you can appreciate the mountain’s colors and other beauties, such as lagoons and streams.

The journey will end at the top of the Mountain of Seven Colors, approximately 5033 meters above sea level. At this point, travelers often take beautiful photographs to immortalize the moment.

If you are one of those people who have difficulties walking, you will find villagers who rent horses and take you much of the way along the way.

Is the hike to Rainbow Mountain Colors challenging?

The walk is not challenging; however, the difficulty lies in the altitude of the natural site. At the beginning of the walk, you will find yourself at about 4,980 meters above sea level and ascend to more than 5,100 meters above sea level.

Suppose you want to climb Vinicunca at your own pace. We recommend excursions in a private group since climbing coordinated with many participants is challenging.

Another vital factor to consider is traveling with children or older adults, who may be more vulnerable to walking conditions.

What is the best season to visit Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca?

In Cusco, there are two very marked seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.

The best season to visit the mountain is August, as it is the dry season. The clear weather allows you to visualize the hill’s colors perfectly.

It is crucial to avoid the rainy months (December, January, and February) or times when snowfall has fallen since the mountain’s visibility is reduced.

In any case, the photographs you manage to take in this magnificent place will be evidence of having reached the goal.

What to do on the Rainbow Mountain?

Vinicunca, or the Mountain of Seven Colors, is a magical place for various activities.

Recommendations before visiting the Rainbow Mountain Treks

Spend one or two days acclimatizing in the city of Cusco. Bring warm clothes for the hike. If you do not consider yourself in good physical condition for the walk, rent a horse from one local. You won’t have to worry about anything, enjoy your trip.

Being at the top of this incredible mountain is something you will remember for the rest of your life, not only for its beauty but also for the unique satisfaction you will feel when you reach the finish line.

Seven Colors Mountain is open all year round, so get ready to discover it!

The Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca, visited by tourists

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